Tensions between various regions of Libya have diminished in significance following devastating rains and floods in the country's northeast, resulting in the loss of thousands of Libyan lives. This perspective was shared by Libyan Minister of Youth Affairs Fathallah al-Zani during his address at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York.
"The tensions and conflicts that were triggered by unfavorable conditions have all been washed away by the recent flood. A new era has begun, and the only thing needed now is to heed the voice of the people yearning for freedom," emphasized al-Zani. He further noted, "The scale of the disaster in northeastern Libya far exceeds the local capacity to respond to it." He added that the Government of National Unity, along with the military and the entire nation, is "working tirelessly to mitigate the disaster's effects, evacuate affected individuals, and provide them with essential support." Al-Zani also commended the Libyan people, stating that they have demonstrated unity, national cohesion, and responsibility. He expressed gratitude to countries and their leaders who dispatched rescue teams and medical professionals to Libya, provided assistance with medicines, and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
"From suffering, the most profound values emerge - the spirit of unity and solidarity," emphasized al-Zani. He highlighted that "following this tragedy, people from both the northern and southern regions of Libya have set aside enmity, transcending historical differences. They are now focusing on planning for the future, with the perspective of the upcoming generation in mind, rather than that of politicians or the military." The minister firmly believed that "these are the lessons we must impart to our children to prevent the repetition of past mistakes."
As the Libyan representative emphasized, "the younger generation in Derna and other towns affected by the disaster are calling for reconciliation, and their voices must be heard." Al-Zani firmly believes that "the time has come for Libya to solidify its democracy, founded on the will of the people, with the support of friendly nations, the UN, and the Arab League." In pursuit of this goal, he added, "free elections should be conducted to establish a unified Libyan government."
Cyclone Daniel struck northeastern Libya on September 10, unleashing powerful winds, heavy rainfall, and thunderstorms along the Mediterranean coast. Derna, in particular, bore the brunt of the devastation, with two dams in the vicinity being destroyed. The destruction of these dams near Derna stands as the primary cause of the significant loss of life in the region. According to the latest data from the Libyan Ministry of Health, approximately 3,300 people perished in Derna due to the disaster. However, earlier reports from the UN suggested a toll exceeding 11,000 flood victims. Previously, the mayor of Derna had stated that "the municipal authorities anticipate that the death toll from the disaster may rise to 20,000."
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Photo: hakeem.gadi/GFDL 1.2
Based on materials from TASS